The Greek word rhýsis, represented by G4511, denotes a flux or issue, specifically in the context of a flow of blood. It is derived from ῥύομαι in the sense of its congener ῥέω. This specific term is not common, as it appears only 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible, each instance referring to the same miraculous healing event.
In all its biblical occurrences, G4511 describes the chronic condition of a woman who suffered from an issue of blood for twelve years (Mark 5:25, Luke 8:43). The narrative in Luke's Gospel highlights her desperation, noting that she "had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any" Luke 8:43. The story climaxes when she touches Jesus' garment in faith, and "immediately her issue of blood stanched" Luke 8:44, demonstrating a complete and instantaneous healing that human efforts could not provide.
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the narrative and its implications:
- G129 haîma (blood): This word is paired with G4511 in every instance, defining the nature of the "issue." Its definition is simply blood, but it is used figuratively for the atoning work of Christ Ephesians 1:7.
- G2395 iatrós (physician): This word appears in the account where the woman had sought help from many physicians to no avail, highlighting the limits of human medicine Luke 8:43.
- G680 háptomai (touch): This is the pivotal action taken by the woman. To touch or attach oneself is what initiated her healing Luke 8:44. In other contexts, it is an action from which one should refrain when dealing with the unclean 2 Corinthians 6:17.
- G2476 hístēmi (stanch): This word describes the result of the healing, as the flow of blood was stopped or made to stand still. The term is also used figuratively for standing firm in faith Ephesians 6:11.
The theological weight of G4511 is understood through the event it describes and the words connected to it.
- Limitation of Human Means: The story explicitly states the failure of physicians G2395 to heal G2323 the woman's condition Luke 8:43, setting a backdrop that emphasizes the unique and superior power of Jesus.
- Faith in Action: The woman's healing is initiated by her choice to touch G680 Jesus' garment Luke 8:44. This act of faith drew out power from Jesus, who "healed them all" who sought to do the same Luke 6:19.
- From Physical to Spiritual Cleansing: The stopping of a physical flow of blood G129 serves as a powerful illustration. The word blood is used elsewhere to signify spiritual redemption, as believers are "washed us from our sins in his own blood" Revelation 1:5 and cleansed from all sin by "the blood of Jesus Christ" 1 John 1:7.
In summary, G4511 is a highly specific term used exclusively to detail the physical suffering of the woman with the issue of blood. While its direct usage is limited, the narrative provides a profound lesson on the power of faith and the insufficiency of worldly solutions compared to divine intervention. The related terms, especially blood G129, elevate the account from a mere physical healing to a picture of the spiritual cleansing available through Christ.
TRV